The NLEX Road Warriors have begun reshaping their coaching setup following another early finish, confirming that head coach Siot Tanquingcen is no longer with the team while emphasizing that veteran coach Jong Uichico will remain part of the organization.

The team acknowledged the change on Tuesday, putting an end to speculation surrounding its bench after the close of the season. While Tanquingcen’s departure marks a clear shift, NLEX was quick to stress that the move does not signal a full-scale overhaul.

Tanquingcen took on the head coaching role with the task of guiding a roster that showed promise but often struggled to string together consistent performances. At times, the Road Warriors displayed the ability to compete with stronger opponents, but those moments were frequently offset by lapses that proved costly in the standings.

As the season progressed, the pressure to produce results mounted. In a league where margins are thin and expectations are high, NLEX found itself falling short of its goals, prompting management to reassess its direction once the campaign came to an end.

While details surrounding the decision were not disclosed, sources familiar with the situation indicated that the parting was handled professionally, with both sides recognizing that a change was needed moving forward. There was no indication of conflict, only an acknowledgment that the partnership had run its course.

Tanquingcen exits, having tried to establish structure and accountability within the team. His approach focused on discipline and preparation, and he was widely regarded as a steady presence on the bench. However, the lack of sustained success made it difficult for the team to maintain patience in a results-driven environment.

At the same time, NLEX’s confirmation that Jong Uichico will stay on carries its own significance.

Uichico is one of the most seasoned figures in Philippine basketball, bringing with him decades of coaching experience across multiple teams and eras. His continued presence offers a sense of familiarity and stability as the Road Warriors navigate another period of transition.

Having served the franchise in various capacities, Uichico is deeply familiar with the team’s internal dynamics. His understanding of the players, the organization’s philosophy, and the demands of the PBA calendar makes him a valuable asset during times of change.

Retaining Uichico also suggests that NLEX is opting for adjustment rather than reinvention. By keeping an experienced voice on the bench, the team appears intent on preserving continuity while evaluating what needs to be improved.

The Road Warriors have yet to announce who will take over as head coach, leaving open several possibilities. Whether Uichico will be considered for the role or whether the team will look outside the organization remains unclear. What is evident is that management is not rushing the process.

With the next conference approaching, NLEX faces important decisions beyond the coaching position. Player roles, rotations, and overall identity remain areas that require clarity. Having a familiar presence on the bench could help bridge the gap between the end of one season and the start of the next.

For the players, the development underscores the reality of professional basketball. Coaching changes are part of the landscape, particularly for teams striving to find consistency. The challenge now lies in responding to uncertainty with focus and professionalism.

NLEX has long hovered near the playoff picture without making a significant breakthrough. Management believes the team has the pieces to compete, but acknowledges that the right leadership and direction are essential to turning potential into results.

As the Road Warriors move forward, the emphasis will be on finding balance — introducing new ideas without losing what has already been built. The departure of Tanquingcen closes one chapter, while Uichico’s retention helps maintain a link to the next.

The coming weeks will be critical in defining the team’s path. For now, NLEX has made its position clear: change is necessary, but stability still matters. How the Road Warriors blend the two will shape their future in the seasons ahead.